This Is Sneaky! A Bike Company in Holland Has Prints Picture of TV on Packaging, Reduces Shipping Damage 80%

This is ingenious. It goes without saying that sometimes big problems have simple solutions.

Here we see Vanmoof, a bike company in Holland placing pictures of TV’s on the side of their bike packaging to raise awareness that the goods are fragile.

When they started shipping their orders they noticed that a staggering 25% of their valuable products were being damaged during delivery.

This is a very big deal for a small startup that sells a $3,000 electric bike.

Damage to goods in transit is a global problem estimated to cost the worldwide economy $2 billion dollars a year.

However for this new company the cost of damage to goods and reputation could have been fatal.

In my opinion the solution is ingenious. Place a photo of a TV on the side in the hope it gets handled with more care.

What do you know? It worked. Damages are now down a whopping 80%.

To deter and prevent damage to goods in transit check out out Shockwatch impact indicator labels to ensure your fragile goods receive the best care.

To ensure your goods remain upright and horizontal take a look at our tip n tell indicator labels.

Damages in Transit

Damage to merchandise is a common risk while a product is in transit. Some commodities can withstand the rigours of a second shipment. Others don't make it and become unacceptable.

The repercussions can be severe, depending on the circumstances. Damages can cost your business money and some of these issues.

1. Customer Dissatisfaction
Merchandise damaged in transit diminishes customer satisfaction. Moreover, they have to wait days, weeks, or even months before they get a replacement.

2. Inventory Disruption
For retailers awaiting shipments, damaged goods translate into fewer items to display. This would mean not meeting expected sales quotas set by the company.

3. Material Waste
Marred products reduce profit margins. The company produced, packaged, and shipped products that may not provide ROI. Even modest percentages of product loss due to damages can deal a substantial blow to a company's profit margins.

With these persistent threats, companies must implement proactive solutions to minimise risks.

15 Ways to Reduce Packaging Damage

Reducing damages to packaged goods during transit or shipping is essential to minimise financial losses and maintain customer satisfaction. Here are several strategies and best practices to help mitigate the risk of damage:

1. Appropriate Packaging Materials
Choose packaging materials that are sturdy, durable, and appropriate for the type of product being shipped. Consider using corrugated boxes, padded envelopes, or custom-designed packaging where necessary.

2. Proper Packing Techniques
Pack items snugly within the packaging to prevent movement during transit. Use bubble wrap, foam, packing peanuts, or other cushioning materials to protect fragile items.

3. Labelling and Handling Instructions
Clearly label packages with "Fragile" or "Handle with Care" warnings. This can alert shipping personnel to exercise caution with delicate items.

4. Quality Control
Implement quality control measures to ensure that products are free from defects before they are packed and shipped. This can reduce the likelihood of damage due to manufacturing flaws.

5. Custom Packaging Design
Consider custom packaging designs that are tailored to the specific dimensions and fragility of the product. Custom packaging can provide a more secure fit and better protection.

6. Use Pallets and Crates
For bulk shipments or larger items, use pallets or wooden crates to provide additional protection and stability.

7. Wrap and Secure Items
Wrap individual items within the package to provide an extra layer of protection. Additionally, use strong tape or strapping materials to secure packages tightly.

8. Stacking and Orientation
Ensure that packages are stacked properly and oriented to minimise the risk of crushing or shifting during transit. Follow shipping guidelines for stacking and orientation.

9. Proper Loading
Ensure that packages are loaded carefully onto shipping vehicles, avoiding rough handling and stacking heavy items on top of delicate ones.

10. Choose Reliable Carriers
Select reputable shipping carriers known for their careful handling of packages. Consider insurance options for high-value items.

11. Monitor Environmental Conditions
Consider the environmental conditions during transit, especially for temperature-sensitive or moisture-sensitive products. Use appropriate packaging and climate-controlled shipping as needed.

12. Document and Inspect
Document the condition of the items before shipping and inspect them upon arrival. This helps identify any damage claims and provides evidence for insurance purposes.

13. Invest in Tracking and Monitoring
Use package tracking systems to keep an eye on the location and condition of your shipments in real time. This can help you intervene if issues arise.

14. Employee Training
Train your staff or anyone involved in the shipping process on best practices for packaging and handling to minimise the risk of damage.

15. Feedback and Improvement
Continuously gather feedback from customers and carriers regarding damaged goods and use this information to improve your packaging and shipping processes.

By implementing these strategies and continually assessing your packaging and shipping methods, you can significantly reduce the risk of damages during transit and maintain the integrity of your products.